Meditation

“In a state of oblivion awaken the mind again, when agitated, pacify it, in between understand the mind is full of potency. If the mind has reached the state of perfect equilibrium then do not disturb it again”.

Mandukya Karika 3.44

Cyclic Meditation

In the ancient science of yoga meditation is one of the eight limbs or aspects of yoga to practice in order to attain spiritual liberation. (Patanjali, circa 900 B.C.). Meditation is a state in which there is transformation of the mind from the state of distraction to an enhanced state of focused awareness. While many practitioners do learn meditation directly, others find it easier to first learn the other stages of yoga. They learn yoga postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayamas) before meditation. It is believed that when a new yogi attempts to meditate initially, there could be two responses based on the quality of the beginner mind. An active mind would be restless all through the session and a mind with inertia could just fall asleep.

This problem of the mind is addressed in the Mandukya Upanishad.. Based on this, a technique of ‘moving meditation’, which combines the practice of yoga postures with guided meditation was developed by H.R. Nagendra, Ph.D., Cyclic Meditation (CM) is a technique that combines yoga postures interspersed with supine rest. This combination based on the Mandukya Upanishad is considered an easier meditation technique to learn and to practice, especially those new to meditation.

Cyclic Meditation helps balance the Sympathetic & Parasympathetic parts of the Autonomic Nervous System and induces metabolic and cellular rest. Research shows that practicing CM for one month not only contributes to emotional wellbeing but also enhances cognitive wellbeing. The results of the research demonstrated that the combination of yoga postures in supine rest reduces energy expenditure more than resting supine (Shavasana) alone.

Numerous studies undertaken at the Swami Vivekananda Yoga Research Foundation, Bangalore, India, where the technique was devised have evidenced that CM helps with the self management of stress management.

“The mind can go in a thousand directions, but on this beautiful path, I walk in peace. With each step, the wind blows. With each step, a flower blooms.”

Thich Nhat Hanh

Cyclic Meditation Workshop

This workshop will teach the principles and practice of Cyclic Meditation and is an introduction to a meditation technique that is easy to learn and very effective if you are prone to stress. The workshop will include a brief introduction to the history and theory of CM and on the impact of stress on our wellbeing. You will learn the 30-40 minute cycle of meditation helping to create a deep state of calm and relaxation. A very effective meditation technique that is particularly helpful in managing and reducing stress levels.

We are delighted to be offering this introduction to Cyclic Meditation for the first time in the UK.

Cyclic Meditation Weekly Class

Pranayama & Om Meditation Workshop

Pranayam consists of two parts. Prana meaning breath and Ayam meaning expansion, regulation and control. Patanjali in his yoga sutra describes it as the controlled in take and out flow of breath in a firmly established posture or asana.

We will start with simple and specific breathing techniques using all muscle groups required for breathwork.

Although breathing is mainly an uncooncisoius process, concisious control of the breath enhances, vitality, dynamism and promotes a general sense of wellbeing. It assists in improving the respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous system.

Pranayama & Om Meditation Weekly Class

Mantra Chanting

This class will introduce the ancient chanting practices from India that are part of a yogic tradition. In India, yoga practice is opened and closed with a chant. This practice helps us to release blocked emotions, to allow us to surrender to a higher entity enabling a release of the ego. The universe is vibration in one form or the other. The things that we see and experience in our daily lives are all vibrations in some way. Chanting is resonating vibration and it is believed that the practice of chanting enables us to harmonise with the universe. Chanting can stimulate the process of healing through the power of sound, acting on the body at a subtle level. It is a practice that has to be experienced. You are welcome to come and just listen. Our practice will include a soothing Ayurvedic drink. Date: Every Thursday Time: 4pm Location: SN2 2HW Cost £8 drop in.

Advance booking only – Please call for further information and to book